Bachelor Of Arts - Honours Arts And Business - Political Science (Co-op) at University of Waterloo - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

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Program overview

Explore the dynamic world of politics with the Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts and Business - Political Science (Co-op) degree from the University of Waterloo, one of Canada's leading institutions. This program is designed for those passionate about understanding and influencing the political landscape, from civil unrest to global trade negotiations. Students will develop essential skills in analysis, writing, critical thinking, and research through a blend of lectures, seminars, and workshops. With a focus on comparative politics, international relations, and political theory, graduates will be well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in today's complex world.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts and Business - Political Science (Co-op) program is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience over a period of four years. The program includes:

Co-op opportunities that allow students to gain relevant paid work experience.
A mix of core Political Science courses and electives from various disciplines.
Flexibility to customize the degree with specializations, such as International Relations, and minors in popular areas like Economics and Sociology.

Students will alternate between academic study and co-op work terms, typically starting in their second year. This integration of classroom learning with real-world experience enhances their employability and prepares them for future careers.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts and Business - Political Science (Co-op) program offers a variety of unique experiences, including:

Co-op Program: Students can gain up to 20 months of paid work experience, enhancing their resumes and professional networks.
Work-Study Sequence: Alternating between study and co-op terms allows students to apply their learning in real-world settings.
Specialization Options: Students can specialize in International Relations, gaining deeper insights into global politics.
Engagement with Experts: Learn from top scholars involved in international policy debates, providing an insider's perspective on current issues.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts and Business - Political Science (Co-op) program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Lawyer: Represent clients in legal matters, providing advice and advocacy in various legal contexts.
Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies for government agencies or organizations, focusing on social, economic, and political issues.
Public Affairs Coordinator: Manage communication strategies and public relations efforts for organizations, ensuring effective messaging.
Research Analyst: Conduct research and analysis on political, social, and economic trends to inform decision-making.
Trade Policy Officer: Work with government bodies to develop and implement trade policies that affect international relations.

These roles highlight the versatility of a Political Science degree, equipping graduates with the skills needed to thrive in various sectors, including government, non-profits, and private industry.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts And Business - Political Science (Co-Op) program at the University of Waterloo, the following Academic Requirements apply:

Minimum GPA: Not specified.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Prerequisite courses:
- English and Mathematics with a minimum grade of 7.5 in each.
Overall average of 8.3 is required for admission.

For international students, particularly those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, the following general requirements must be met:

Bàng Tốt Nghiệp Phố Thông Trung Học (Secondary School Graduation Certificate) is required.

It is advisable to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner. For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

English Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at the University of Waterloo. Success in our programs requires a high level of English language proficiency.

You need to provide an English language test score if:

your four most recent years of full-time education have NOT been in an English-language school system AND
your first language is NOT English.

Required English Language Scores

Tests that do not appear on this chart are not accepted for admission consideration.

Official test scores must be sent by the testing agency directly to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar. Emails, faxes, and student copies of test scores are not accepted for admission.

Test	Minimum Score	How to Send Test Results
Internet-based TOEFL (iBT), including Home Edition and Paper Edition	90 overall, 25 writing, 25 speaking	Waterloo's institution code is 0996 and our department code is 00. We do not accept electronic TOEFL scores for undergraduate admissions.
IELTS Academic	6.5 overall, 6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening	We accept the electronic Test Report Form (TRF). Waterloo's e-transfer institution name is University of Waterloo – Undergraduate OR University of Waterloo Admissions.
CAEL or CAEL online	70 overall, 60 per band, 70 writing, 70 speaking	You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo as a recipient institution.
PTE Academic	63 overall, 65 writing, 65 speaking	Send your Score Report Code or Registration ID to myapplication@uwaterloo.ca.
Cambridge English test (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)	180 overall, 176 writing, 176 reading, 176 speaking, 176 listening	Go to the Candidate Results Online portal, input your ID and secret number then click on "Send my result."
Duolingo English test	The minimum requirement for tests completed before July 1, 2024 is an overall score of 120, with minimum Literacy and Production scores of 110. Tests completed after July 1, 2024 require an overall of 120 with Literacy and Production scores of 125 for direct entry to a Waterloo program.	Results will not be accepted without subscores. You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo – Undergraduate as a recipient institution.
EFAS - English for Academic Success	75% overall in 400 levels, 75% in each of academic, oral, and writing	Your scores will be sent to us automatically by the English Language Institute.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!